Joe Peterson-11/4/24
Wow, Roughrider fans, I'm still reeling from the emotion of last Friday's game! That final touchdown wasn't just a display of skill and teamwork; it was a testament to the power of perseverance, endurance, and the unwavering bond between these incredible athletes.
Seeing Cedric Grimes, battling through injury and pain, refusing to give up, and working with his team with such heart...it was nothing short of inspiring. And then, that incredible final push, with the entire team rallying around Cedric, protecting him, and giving him the space to make that game-winning throw to Jaxon Mcbiles...it was a moment that truly moved me!
For those who know me well, you know I have a damaged knee myself and have had a limp for a very long time. Enduring pain in a leg is hard to do, especially when it involves the high-stakes intensity of a football game. To see Cedric push through that adversity and his team rally around him...well, it hit me right in the feels.
This is what it's all about, folks. This is why we love sports. The sheer determination, the unwavering support, the refusal to quit, and the explosive joy of that final touchdown – it was a symphony of human spirit and teamwork at its finest.
And speaking of teamwork, let's give a massive shout-out to the entire Roughrider squad! They played with heart, grit, and an incredible synergy that was evident throughout the game. It wasn't just about individual stars; it was about every player stepping up, supporting each other, and working together to achieve a common goal.
The coaches deserve immense credit as well. Their guidance, strategy, and ability to instill a sense of unity and purpose in these young athletes are truly remarkable. This victory is a testament to their dedication and leadership.
A Game for the History Books
This wasn't just any victory; it was a decisive 34-13 win that secured Pima's place in the 2A state championship game! The Roughriders showcased a balanced offensive attack, with quarterback Cedric Grimes throwing for 190 yards and 2 touchdowns, and running back Kayden McClure adding 95 rushing yards and a touchdown of his own. The defense was equally impressive, holding Santa Cruz to just 13 points, with defensive back Jaxon McBiles making a crucial interception and several key tackles.
There were so many other great moments that truly made this game a game to remember. The energy in the stadium was electric, the fans were roaring, and the Roughriders were firing on all cylinders. It was an unforgettable night of high school football, and I'm so grateful to have been there to capture it all.
Relive the Magic!
Here is the link to the full game uninterrupted and with added instant replays:
Link to video: https://youtu.be/Se3g8UpZez0
I'm also uploading a separate video with just the replays, so stay tuned for that!
A Shout-out to the Dream Team Behind the Scenes
I couldn't have captured this incredible game without the support of my brother Nathan. Him and I endured a long travel from Pima all the way to Eloy Arizona. His help and assistance was greatly appreciated, especiallyd the long drive home at 12 am.
Onward to the Semi-Finals!
I'm still buzzing from the excitement of Friday's game, and I can't wait to see what the Roughriders will accomplish in the semi-finals! Stay tuned for updates on the game details and whether or not I'll be able to live stream it.
Thank you all for your incredible support! Go Roughriders!
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